EU High Representative for CFSP strongly condemns escalating violence in the Palestinian territories – EU press release/Non-UN document

Javier Solana,

EU High Representative for the CFSP,

strongly condemns escalating violence in the Palestinian territories

Javier Solana, European Union High Representative for the Common Foreign and Security Policy (CFSP), condemned today the escalation of violence in the Palestinian territories:

"I am deeply concerned with the spiral of violence in the Palestinian territories and in particular in the Gaza strip. I condemn the great number of innocent victims caused by the latest violence. Israel has the right to defend itself against terrorism but the resort to force must be proportionate. I appeal to them to refrain from unnecessary destruction of houses and other infrastructures. This can only contribute to aggravating the humanitarian situation of the Palestinian population.

I strongly condemn the rocket attacks against Israeli civilians from Gaza. I urge the Palestinian Authority to do its outmost to prevent future terrorist attacks and the activities of terrorist groups. I urge them to implement the necessary reforms in their security structures to significantly improve the situation in the territories.

I urge both sides to resume their bilateral security co-operation."

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